Dermatologist offers cold weather tips

As the temperature changes, so do your skin care needs. Using an African American skin care product that contains an added moisturizer is one way to protect skin against the colder months, but more effort is needed if you want to keep from drying out. Recently, a North Carolina dermatologist offered some suggestions for keeping skin healthy in the coming weather. 

First, the expert suggested monitoring the temperature inside your house.

“If your home or workplace temperature is warm enough to make it feel like a sauna, you might be drying out your skin," said Rita Pichardo-Geisinger, M.D., of the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center dermatology department.

Next, the dermatologist suggested using a fragrance-free soap and detergent for clothes. Perfumes can dry out the skin and lead to flaking, while people with very sensitive complexions may find that detergents with additives cause skin irritation.

Finally, Pichardo-Geisinger encouraged women to not forget about their feet. Cracked heels can be unsightly, and there are plenty of creams available to help combat this problem.

These tips may help keep your skin looking moisturized through whatever the coming winter months will bring.

 

Are you using the right skin care product?

Trying to achieve perfect look can be difficult, especially considering the variety of African American skin care products out there. While having more variety may seem like it would make it easier to find the makeup that works for you, it can also make things extremely overwhelming. The Dominion Post reports on how to discover the product that is truly meant for your skin type, and how to tell if you've bought the wrong cosmetic. 

First, the news source reminded readers that there is no such thing as a "miracle cure," so you have to be patient. The Post stated that the most important ingredient to have in a foundation is SPF to protect against the sun's rays, but there is one other key substance - antioxidants.

"Some of the best [antioxidants] are those we easily recognize, for example, green tea, vitamins E and C and grape extract. And the more we use, the better," said Post reporter Tracey Strange.

Next, the news provider states that if a product is causing you skin to feel taught and dry or a rash appears, then you should toss it out and try another one.

Skincare-News.com states that your skin care product may stop working when the seasons change. For example, cold weather has lower levels of air moisture which can lead to dry skin, so you might need a heavier moisturizer in the winter.  

Beauty magazines offer some weekend makeup tips

While your African American skin care product can easily transition from day to night, you probably want to have a different look when you're out on the town than when you're in the office. Cosmopolitan Magazine explained some of the science behind choosing your weekend makeup style versus your workday look. 

Celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff told the magazine that your sleep schedule on the weekend should actually be factored into your skin care routine.

"Extra sleep on the weekend helps restore circulation, making under-eye circles less obvious. So just use a tinted moisturizer with SPF and top with bronzer," said Dubroff, quoted by the beauty news source.

Dubroff added that on the weekend you'll want to have more dramatic eye makeup, so don't be afraid to choose a more vibrant color than you would use at the office, such as rich blue shades.

Glamour Magazine offered a fun weekend lipstick and eyeliner combo that was inspired by Solange Knowles. The beauty news provider suggested using a coral lipstick with a green or gold eyeliner, these colors go well together, especially on black skin.  

Your foundation should reflect your skin type

Finding the right foundation that perfectly blends in with your skin tone can be difficult, especially when there are so many African American skin care products on the market that promise to be the answer to all of your needs. Recently, The Miami Herald spoke to Emmy-winning makeup artist Kevin James Bennett about how to choose the perfect foundation, and how to properly apply it once you find it. 

First, the expert said that you need to look at foundation the same way as face wash, meaning that you should choose one that's meant for your specific skin type. For example, people with oily skin should find formulas that say they are meant to control acne and excess oil.

Next, Bennett offered tips on proper foundation application.

"For sanitary reasons and better application, I prefer sponges and brushes [over fingers]. I prefer to dab foundation (with a cotton swab) onto areas that need coverage and then blend with a clean, synthetic foundation brush or a non-latex sponge," said Bennett quoted by the Herald.

Oprah suggests on her website that people with dry skin should choose a liquid or hydrating powder foundation, while individuals with an oily complexion should use an oil-free liquid or powder compact.